How Many Expats Are in Prague?

By Robert Palmer

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s no surprise that it attracts a large number of expats from all over the world.

But just how many expats call Prague home? Let’s dive into the numbers.

Expats in Prague

According to the latest statistics from the Czech Statistical Office, there were around 507,000 foreign residents living in the Czech Republic as of December 2020. Out of these, approximately 155,000 reside in Prague. This means that almost a third of all foreign residents in the country live in the capital city.

Top Nationalities

So which nationalities make up this diverse group of expats living in Prague? The largest group comes from Ukraine, with over 20,000 Ukrainian nationals residing in the city.

This is followed by Slovaks (16,000), Russians (11,500), and Vietnamese (8,500). Other significant groups include Americans (5,500), Germans (5,200), and British (4,700).

Reasons for Living in Prague

Prague has become increasingly popular among expats due to its thriving job market and lower cost of living compared to other major European cities. Many international companies have set up their offices here, providing ample job opportunities for professionals from different fields. Additionally, Prague’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of Europe.

Challenges Faced by Expats

Living abroad can be challenging at times and expats in Prague are not immune to this reality. Language barriers and cultural differences can make it difficult to integrate into society and form meaningful connections with locals.

Another significant challenge is finding suitable accommodation at an affordable price. The rental market has become increasingly competitive in recent years due to high demand, and this has led to rising prices. Expats may also face difficulties navigating the Czech bureaucracy when it comes to obtaining visas, work permits, and other necessary documents.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges that come with living in a foreign country, Prague remains a popular destination for expats from all over the world. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to call this city home.